Spinalonga is a small islet located in the Gulf of Elounda, in the Lasithi region of northeastern Crete, near the village of Plaka. Officially named Kalydon, it served as one of Europe's last active leper colonies, operating until 1957. The island's Venetian fortress, built in the 16th century, later housed thousands of patients isolated from mainland society. Today, Spinalonga is one of Crete's most visited historical sites, attracting visitors drawn by its layered history spanning Venetian, Ottoman, and modern Greek periods. It gained international attention through Victoria Hislop's novel "The Island." Tourists can reach Spinalonga by short boat trips departing from Elounda, Plaka, and Agios Nikolaos. The site is open seasonally, and guided tours are available on the island. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as the terrain is uneven.